Formula One presenter, Lee McKenzie, has been appointed official ambassador for a new tourism campaign for Ayrshire.

Gaelic for five, The Coig is a series of five tourist routes covering Ayrshire, Arran, Bute and Cumbrae, offering people an exciting new way to explore the unique coast and countryside on their doorstep.

Each route has been specially designed to showcase the outstanding natural beauty, history and heritage and food and drink, as well the wide range of outdoor and family activities on offer across the region.

Born and bred in Ayrshire, Lee McKenzie is one of the most recognised faces on the nation’s TV screens, having presented Formula One over the last decade and was youngest person in the UK to present the 6 o’clock news covering the Lockerbie Trial to the opening of the Scottish Parliament.

Lee said: “I was born and raised in this area and it holds so many happy memories for me, so I’m really proud to help people get out and active across the region this Autumn, Winter, and beyond.

“My go-to when it comes to relaxation and unwinding after getting off a plane or live TV is the beach. It’s nature at its best and no matter where I’ve been in the world, it always feels great to be home”.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, NAC Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “This campaign will put Ayrshire on the map both nationally and internationally, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our countryside, coast and islands.” For more information on The Coig visit www.thecoig.com or email info@thecoig.com.